Gladstone PopCon

Gladstone PopCon is a convergence of innovation, pop culture and fandom that celebrates the spirit of the independent creator and their fans.

PopCon was last held on Saturday 13 September, 2025 from 3pm-8pm across the GECC, Library Square and Library, offering an array of entertainment including workshops, guest speakers, Cosplay Competition, market stalls, food vendors and much more.

Members of the public were invited to show off their cosplay skills, check out the displays, treat themselves at the market stalls, and make some new friends.

The cosplay competition and parade were open to all ages.

We had hundreds of cosplayers who took on Goondoon Street for our annual Cosplay Parade.

Cosplay Championship winners wowed the crowd, with the standout costume going to a hand-crafted Pyramid Head, entirely homemade in 3D and inspired by the film Silent Hill.

Massive shoutout to our Cosplay Judges - Kaitlyn, Ben and Rick!

Update

As part of Council's 2026/27 Budget process, a comprehensive review identified a range of efficiencies aimed at minimising impacts on ratepayers while continuing to deliver valued community experiences.

As a result, PopCon and Luminous will now be held every two years, on a biennial event schedule.

This change will help ensure these much-loved signature events remain sustainable, affordable and enjoyable for years to come, while continuing to deliver the experiences our community knows and loves.

Thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to welcoming fans back for PopCon 2027 and creating another fantastic celebration of pop culture, creativity and community.